HardwareHow we test projectors at GamesRadarWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
HardwareHow we test projectors at GamesRadarWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Future)
We’re always gazing up at big screens, testing the latest and greatest projectors across games, movies, and streaming services. We’re on a quest to find thebest projectorson the market, and that means we need a thorough methodology, objectively applied across all brands, price points, and use-cases. Every projector we test sits in our homes for a minimum of two weeks, ideally much longer. We don’t review these devices in sterile labs, we bring them into our lives, living rooms, and gaming setups to see just how well they hold up against regular day to day use in a real-world setting. Our testing process is more than a few movie nights, though.
Inline with the widerGamesRadar+ Hardware Policy, we assess each projector according to its design, features, and overall performance, all while constantly comparing to other models available at similar price points. Each of these three areas of interest break down into finer details that come together to form a more holistic picture of each model’s everyday functionality.
How we test projector design
(Image credit: Future)
After this, we take a deeper look at the build quality. This means assessing the materials used for durability and longevity, as well as any premium finishes they may provide in a more high-end model. We’re also constantly on the lookout for any early signs that a projector’s build might not be up to the long game; creaks when handling, easy scuffing or chipping on the corners, and any manufacturing joins or screws.
Once we fire up the projector itself, we also test the placements of any onboard controls and the port access for ease of use across the device as a whole.
Swipe to scroll horizontallyDesign testing perametersForm factorSize, weight, footprint, shape, portability, mounting restrictionsAestheticColor, subtlety, decorMaterialsBuild quality, construction, durabilityEase of useControl placement, port access
Swipe to scroll horizontally
Design testing perametersForm factorSize, weight, footprint, shape, portability, mounting restrictionsAestheticColor, subtlety, decorMaterialsBuild quality, construction, durabilityEase of useControl placement, port access
How we test projector features
(Image credit: Future/Will Donovan)
This is where that value for money really comes into play. While testing a projector we’re constantly noting the basic and additional features on offer, and directly comparing that offering against models in a similar price range and slightly lower / higher.
We start with the actual projection technology, whether it’s DLP or LCD and the light source being used as well. Then we move onto the picture produced, clocking resolution options (and whether or not a4K projectoris using pixel shifting to achieve UHD imaging), refresh rates, image size and HDR compatibilities. All of this is compared against the different image size options available within our performance checks. We also compare max brightness, contrast, and color ranges with other models, as well as speaker size and placement (and the ultimate experience they produce). We take special care to fully utilize as many of the projector’s offered ports as possible, running all manner of gadgets and gizmos through each connection to ensure compliancy - but with a particular focus on PS5 / Xbox Series X HDMI 2.1 compatibility.
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Swipe to scroll horizontallyFeature testing perametersProjection techImaging system, light sourceDisplayResolution, refresh rate, size, HDR, brightness, contrast, color rangesSpeakersSize, placementPortsBreadth, console compatibilityOperating systemAuto adjustments, menu navigation, responsiveness, app selection, streaming options, wireless connectivitySetupZoom, lens shift, throw ratio
Swipe to scroll horizontally
Feature testing perametersProjection techImaging system, light sourceDisplayResolution, refresh rate, size, HDR, brightness, contrast, color rangesSpeakersSize, placementPortsBreadth, console compatibilityOperating systemAuto adjustments, menu navigation, responsiveness, app selection, streaming options, wireless connectivitySetupZoom, lens shift, throw ratio
How we test projector performance
(Image credit: Future)
Each projector we review is tested in three lighting conditions; full sunlight, ambient lighting (blinds closed with daylight bleed), and full darkness. Within each of these environments we’re constantly checking brightness and clarity, especially within darker moments. We also compare color vividity, contrast, and tonal qualities within these different lighting constraints, in both SDR and (where applicable) HDR settings.
Throughout our testing we’re also watching for any distortion in the form of ghosting, blooming, and rainbows, while also noting the individual image changes that occur when using auto-adjustment features and how much they effect overall image integrity.
We primarily use four games to test all these individual components; Astro’s Playroom (and more recently, Astro Bot), Assassin’s Creed: Mirage, The Last of Us Part 2, and Apex Legends.
Astro Bot’s incredibly high-contrast scenes allow us a clean look at color vibrancy and handling, as well as the brightness levels during high-key scenes. Assassin’s Creed Mirage’s muddier imagery gives projectors a harder contrast challenge, but we also use it to test for sharpness and clarity in more complex scenes. The Last of Us Part 2 is used to test brightness levels across darker shots, and the level of detail still discernible within the frame. Meanwhile Apex Legends allows us to test the latency of a projector as well as the smoothness of its image refresh.
Swipe to scroll horizontallyPerformance testing perametersImageClarity, resolution, sharpnessColorVibrancy, contrast, toneBrightnessHigh and low key lighting scenesSpeedLatency, refresh rate, motion handling
Swipe to scroll horizontally
Performance testing perametersImageClarity, resolution, sharpnessColorVibrancy, contrast, toneBrightnessHigh and low key lighting scenesSpeedLatency, refresh rate, motion handling
How we compare projectors
You can also check outhow we test gaming monitorsfor more into our display testing process.
CATEGORIESPS5XboxNintendo SwitchPlatformsPlayStationNintendo
CATEGORIES
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Most Popular
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GAME REVIEWSMOVIE REVIEWSTV REVIEWS1Nemesis review: “A magical sense of tension"2Arcs review: “A whole lot of game in a small package"3Path of Exile 2 review: “A stellar start to a thrilling and brutal dark adventure"4Indiana Jones and the Great Circle review: “The best adventure Indy has embarked on in over 30 years"5Marvel Rivals review: “So preoccupied with trying to be like Overwatch that it forgets to play to its own strengths"1Sonic the Hedgehog 3 review: “Keanu Reeves as Shadow is wasted whilst Jim Carrey steals the show"2Mufasa: The Lion King review – “It’s no Hakuna Matata but this Disney origin story is a class above the 2019 movie"3Kraven the Hunter review: “The insistence on an R-rating helps save this, with a decent helping of bloodthirsty action"4The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim review – “An uninspired expansion of the most iconic screen take on Tolkien"5Nightbitch review: “Amy Adams' disappointing dark comedy is all bark and no bite"1Doctor Who 2024 Christmas special review: “Ncuti Gatwa is as magnetic as ever in this delightful festive treat"2Secret Level review: “An uneven experience with serious highlights that ultimately make up for the misses"3Skeleton Crew review: “Perfectly captures the vibes of classic Star Wars with a swashbuckling twist"4Creature Commandos review: “James Gunn’s heartwarming, R-rated tale about super-monsters proves that the DCU is in good hands"5Cobra Kai season 6, part 2 review: “Returns to the sort of hard-hitting form that made it such a fan favorite in the first place”
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GAME REVIEWSMOVIE REVIEWSTV REVIEWS1Nemesis review: “A magical sense of tension"2Arcs review: “A whole lot of game in a small package"3Path of Exile 2 review: “A stellar start to a thrilling and brutal dark adventure"4Indiana Jones and the Great Circle review: “The best adventure Indy has embarked on in over 30 years"5Marvel Rivals review: “So preoccupied with trying to be like Overwatch that it forgets to play to its own strengths"1Sonic the Hedgehog 3 review: “Keanu Reeves as Shadow is wasted whilst Jim Carrey steals the show"2Mufasa: The Lion King review – “It’s no Hakuna Matata but this Disney origin story is a class above the 2019 movie"3Kraven the Hunter review: “The insistence on an R-rating helps save this, with a decent helping of bloodthirsty action"4The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim review – “An uninspired expansion of the most iconic screen take on Tolkien"5Nightbitch review: “Amy Adams' disappointing dark comedy is all bark and no bite"1Doctor Who 2024 Christmas special review: “Ncuti Gatwa is as magnetic as ever in this delightful festive treat"2Secret Level review: “An uneven experience with serious highlights that ultimately make up for the misses"3Skeleton Crew review: “Perfectly captures the vibes of classic Star Wars with a swashbuckling twist"4Creature Commandos review: “James Gunn’s heartwarming, R-rated tale about super-monsters proves that the DCU is in good hands"5Cobra Kai season 6, part 2 review: “Returns to the sort of hard-hitting form that made it such a fan favorite in the first place”
GAME REVIEWSMOVIE REVIEWSTV REVIEWS1Nemesis review: “A magical sense of tension"2Arcs review: “A whole lot of game in a small package"3Path of Exile 2 review: “A stellar start to a thrilling and brutal dark adventure"4Indiana Jones and the Great Circle review: “The best adventure Indy has embarked on in over 30 years"5Marvel Rivals review: “So preoccupied with trying to be like Overwatch that it forgets to play to its own strengths"1Sonic the Hedgehog 3 review: “Keanu Reeves as Shadow is wasted whilst Jim Carrey steals the show"2Mufasa: The Lion King review – “It’s no Hakuna Matata but this Disney origin story is a class above the 2019 movie"3Kraven the Hunter review: “The insistence on an R-rating helps save this, with a decent helping of bloodthirsty action"4The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim review – “An uninspired expansion of the most iconic screen take on Tolkien"5Nightbitch review: “Amy Adams' disappointing dark comedy is all bark and no bite"1Doctor Who 2024 Christmas special review: “Ncuti Gatwa is as magnetic as ever in this delightful festive treat"2Secret Level review: “An uneven experience with serious highlights that ultimately make up for the misses"3Skeleton Crew review: “Perfectly captures the vibes of classic Star Wars with a swashbuckling twist"4Creature Commandos review: “James Gunn’s heartwarming, R-rated tale about super-monsters proves that the DCU is in good hands"5Cobra Kai season 6, part 2 review: “Returns to the sort of hard-hitting form that made it such a fan favorite in the first place”
GAME REVIEWSMOVIE REVIEWSTV REVIEWS
1Nemesis review: “A magical sense of tension”
1Nemesis review: “A magical sense of tension”
1
Nemesis review: “A magical sense of tension”
2Arcs review: “A whole lot of game in a small package”
2Arcs review: “A whole lot of game in a small package”
2
Arcs review: “A whole lot of game in a small package”
3Path of Exile 2 review: “A stellar start to a thrilling and brutal dark adventure”
3Path of Exile 2 review: “A stellar start to a thrilling and brutal dark adventure”
3
Path of Exile 2 review: “A stellar start to a thrilling and brutal dark adventure”
4Indiana Jones and the Great Circle review: “The best adventure Indy has embarked on in over 30 years”
4Indiana Jones and the Great Circle review: “The best adventure Indy has embarked on in over 30 years”
4
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle review: “The best adventure Indy has embarked on in over 30 years”
5Marvel Rivals review: “So preoccupied with trying to be like Overwatch that it forgets to play to its own strengths”
5Marvel Rivals review: “So preoccupied with trying to be like Overwatch that it forgets to play to its own strengths”
5
Marvel Rivals review: “So preoccupied with trying to be like Overwatch that it forgets to play to its own strengths”
1Sonic the Hedgehog 3 review: “Keanu Reeves as Shadow is wasted whilst Jim Carrey steals the show”
1Sonic the Hedgehog 3 review: “Keanu Reeves as Shadow is wasted whilst Jim Carrey steals the show”
1
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 review: “Keanu Reeves as Shadow is wasted whilst Jim Carrey steals the show”
2Mufasa: The Lion King review – “It’s no Hakuna Matata but this Disney origin story is a class above the 2019 movie”
2Mufasa: The Lion King review – “It’s no Hakuna Matata but this Disney origin story is a class above the 2019 movie”
2
Mufasa: The Lion King review – “It’s no Hakuna Matata but this Disney origin story is a class above the 2019 movie”
3Kraven the Hunter review: “The insistence on an R-rating helps save this, with a decent helping of bloodthirsty action”
3Kraven the Hunter review: “The insistence on an R-rating helps save this, with a decent helping of bloodthirsty action”
3
Kraven the Hunter review: “The insistence on an R-rating helps save this, with a decent helping of bloodthirsty action”
4The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim review – “An uninspired expansion of the most iconic screen take on Tolkien”
4The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim review – “An uninspired expansion of the most iconic screen take on Tolkien”
4
The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim review – “An uninspired expansion of the most iconic screen take on Tolkien”
5Nightbitch review: “Amy Adams' disappointing dark comedy is all bark and no bite”
5Nightbitch review: “Amy Adams' disappointing dark comedy is all bark and no bite”
5
Nightbitch review: “Amy Adams' disappointing dark comedy is all bark and no bite”
1Doctor Who 2024 Christmas special review: “Ncuti Gatwa is as magnetic as ever in this delightful festive treat”
1Doctor Who 2024 Christmas special review: “Ncuti Gatwa is as magnetic as ever in this delightful festive treat”
1
Doctor Who 2024 Christmas special review: “Ncuti Gatwa is as magnetic as ever in this delightful festive treat”
2Secret Level review: “An uneven experience with serious highlights that ultimately make up for the misses”
2Secret Level review: “An uneven experience with serious highlights that ultimately make up for the misses”
2
Secret Level review: “An uneven experience with serious highlights that ultimately make up for the misses”
3Skeleton Crew review: “Perfectly captures the vibes of classic Star Wars with a swashbuckling twist”
3Skeleton Crew review: “Perfectly captures the vibes of classic Star Wars with a swashbuckling twist”
3
Skeleton Crew review: “Perfectly captures the vibes of classic Star Wars with a swashbuckling twist”
4Creature Commandos review: “James Gunn’s heartwarming, R-rated tale about super-monsters proves that the DCU is in good hands”
4Creature Commandos review: “James Gunn’s heartwarming, R-rated tale about super-monsters proves that the DCU is in good hands”
4
Creature Commandos review: “James Gunn’s heartwarming, R-rated tale about super-monsters proves that the DCU is in good hands”
5Cobra Kai season 6, part 2 review: “Returns to the sort of hard-hitting form that made it such a fan favorite in the first place”
5Cobra Kai season 6, part 2 review: “Returns to the sort of hard-hitting form that made it such a fan favorite in the first place”
5
Cobra Kai season 6, part 2 review: “Returns to the sort of hard-hitting form that made it such a fan favorite in the first place”